By Becky Usman

The ongoing nationwide strike led by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) may see a resolution soon, following a “fruitful” meeting between the unions and the Federal Government.

The Minister of Labour, Simon Bako Lalong, and the Minister of State for Labour, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyeajeocha, engaged in discussions with the striking unions on Wednesday, as reported earlier by DAILY POST. The meeting, held at the office of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, saw the active participation of the NSA.

The strike was initiated in response to the assault on NLC President Joe Ajaero in Owerri, Imo State, on November 1. The organized labour is demanding the arrest and prosecution of the alleged political thugs responsible for the attack on the NLC President and other workers who were protesting unpaid salaries.

The strike, which began on Tuesday, has significantly impacted economic activities in various parts of the country.

After the meeting with the labour leaders, the Minister of Labour stated that the discussions were fruitful. He revealed that, following robust deliberations, the labour leaders agreed to consult with their constituencies and provide feedback.

“The meeting was in respect to what happened, especially in Imo State, and this meeting has heavy security considerations; that is why we took the meeting at the office of the National Security Adviser. All the labour leaders were also here with us. We had a very fruitful discussion. They have also agreed to take it back home to their constituencies so that they can suspend the strike,” he explained.

TUC President Comrade Festus Osifo also commented on the meeting, stating that the Federal Government made several appeals and promises during the discussions, which could lead to the suspension of the strike.

“We had a robust conversation where a lot of assurances were given in furtherance to the release that was made by the NSA this morning that some people have been apprehended. They made several appeals and promises to us, so we said let’s go back and reappraise all the conversations we have had, and we will communicate accordingly,” he said.